Bill > HR6312

This bill establishes a three-year federal pilot program for cost-sharing of child care expenses among employers, employees, and state governments. Under the program, states can apply for competitive grants to create a child care cost-sharing system where the expense of child care for an eligible child is split equally in thirds: one-third paid by the parent, one-third by the parent's employer, and one-third by the state. To participate, employers must apply to the state's lead agency, and parents must submit an application that includes verification of employment and family income. The program targets children who have not yet reached kindergarten age, whose family income is between the state's child care assistance threshold and 300% of that threshold, and who are not already receiving child care services through existing federal programs. The bill allocates $250 million annually for the pilot, with 5% reserved for program evaluation and technical assistance. After the three-year period, the Secretary of Health and Human Services must submit a report to Congress detailing the program's cost-effectiveness, impact on employment and employee retention, and child care affordability and access. The program is designed to be flexible, allowing states to use technology platforms to administer the grants and potentially involving third-party administrators.

Budget and Finance

https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/house-bill/6312/all-info